Another outstanding contribution to the multi-residential design space, The Isles by SJB emerges as a collection of nine bespoke apartments on Sydney’s waterfront. The future of residential design is contingent on a number of factors; greater emphasis on sustainable modes of making, for one, and more active contribution to the multi-residential design sector. Melbourne and Sydney-based design studio SJB is at the forefront of both movements, and they continue to offer high-end multi-residential projects in major cities.

The firm’s latest venture, The Isles, is located just outside Sydney’s CBD in the secluded waterfront suburb of Drummoyne. The Isles comprises nine apartments, each designed to emulate the spaciousness of a stand-alone home. SJB's vision was to create a quiet urban oasis; a realisation of refined city living. 

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill beach-side apartment block; SJB weren’t afraid to test the boundaries of colour and materiality and tap into their playful side. “The interiors are designed as an extension of the harbour, melding beach and city life through a soft, tonal palette,” SJB senior associate Victoria Judge says. A playful combination of limestone, dark walnut veneer and blue-toned marble creates the sense that you are a part of the area’s unique ecosystem.

Bespoke details lift the apartments into their harbour-side locale. The Gervasoni Brass 95 pendant floating above the kitchen island is one example, which Victoria likens to a shell washed up against the shore. Circling back to the kitchen island, the opulent blue stone isn’t the only notable feature; the fluted bamboo base references the soft ripples and waves that form in the harbour.

SJB collaborated closely with the client and builder, MADE Property Group, to bring The Isles to life. Sand-coloured brickwork and rounded volumes were chosen to realise the description of a “quiet urban oasis” and “an extension of the harbour”. A direct connection to the harbour was achieved through cascading gardens and elevated balcony views, allowing occupants to take in the entirety of their surroundings. On the upper floor, a roof-top garden offers views of Sydney’s skyline, emphasising the melding of beach and city life.